ICT support for workplace learning: eLearning in Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs)

Present economic developments are characterised by globalisation and internalisation. Networks and relationships between companies from different regions are increasing in importance and are used for purposes of investments, trading and research and development. At the same time, the product demands are increasing. Customers expect a rapid availability of new products and desire that they fit their individual needs. Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) are relatively flexible and quickly adapted to change, and in this light, seen as key organisations for driving innovation and to promote employment. In Europe, SMEs are the backbone of regional prosperity and employment. Employees’ professional development is therefore often seen as a precondition to achieve innovations and to compete with other companies. However, small enterprises are often not able to develop or finance learning initiatives independently. It is therefore not surprising that the European Commission draws a lot of attention to SMEs when issuing research grants and stimulation programmes to promote innovation and professional development (http://fp6.cordis.lu/fp6/calls.cfm).